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A New Kind of Golf Community: Inside the Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi Golf Community

In the heart of Tokyo’s bustling financial and cultural hub, a new kind of golf community is quietly growing, one tee time at a time. The Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi Casual Golf Community is redefining what it means to be an international recreation golfer in Japan, offering an environment that is diverse, inclusive, and most importantly, relaxed.

We caught up with Allan Watanabe, one of the group’s members, to learn more about the community, the spirit behind it, and what makes it such an inviting alternative to Japan’s often tradition-bound golf scene.

From Casual Rounds to Community

“The group has grown to over 70 members, and continues to expand with each event,” says Watanabe.

What started as a handful of casual games has become one of the most welcoming golf communities in the city. The group is made of members of the Tokyo American Club’s Nihonbashi location, a sleek, modern satellite club that opened its doors in 2021 as a downtown haven for business, fitness, and social connection. With limited, adult-only membership, the Nihonbashi club offers a more intimate experience than its larger sibling in Azabudai—and the golf group reflects that same tone.

Inclusive and International

The group includes men and women, locals and expats, with members from both the Nihonbashi and Azabudai communities. What unites them isn’t skill level or competitive spirit. It’s a shared love for the game and the connections it creates.

“One round I might be paired with the CEO of a distribution company, and the next with a chef from a top Japanese restaurant or a sales executive from a Global 500 firm,” Watanabe explains. “It’s a unique mix of professionals who are simply there to enjoy the game—no pretense, no hidden agendas.”

Golf Without the Pressure

Unlike many golf societies in Japan, the Nihonbashi Golf Community is deliberately casual. Rounds are held once or twice a month at rotating courses chosen for their scenic value and playability—Fuji Country Club, Hayama Kokusai, and Ohtone Country Club are just a few of the recent picks. Members arrange their own transportation, often carpooling or hopping on the train.

“We’re out there enjoying the game, having conversations, maybe sipping a lemon shochu or two on the course,” Watanabe laughs. “It’s golf made fun and approachable.”

LIV Spirit, TAC Backbone

While many of the members also belong to the main Tokyo American Club in Azabudai, Watanabe is quick to draw the distinction between the two golf groups.

“The Azabudai group is highly competitive and for men only. I like to say that Azabudai is PGA, and we’re LIV. We’ve got a more relaxed, social vibe.”

That sense of fun is key to the group’s success—and its future.

What’s Next?

With upcoming rounds scheduled at some of the region’s top courses and a steadily growing roster, the Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi golfers are proving that there’s more than one way to build a golf community in Japan.

Whether you’re a new player looking to dip your toes into the sport or a seasoned golfer who prefers good company over low scores, this group might just be the most enjoyable round you’ll find in Tokyo.

About Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi

Located in one of Tokyo’s most dynamic neighborhoods, Tokyo American Club Nihonbashi offers members a refined, urban retreat with luxury amenities, workout spaces, fine dining, and more. Membership is exclusive to adults and includes single and couple plans. Members of the flagship Azabudai club also have access to the Nihonbashi facility.
Learn more: nihonbashi.tokyoamericanclub.org

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